Testimonials
"It was a great honor to be nominated as one of the finalist for the 2012 W.I.L.D. Legacy Award. I have attended all 5 years of the W.I.L.D. Conference. Gannon has done a tremendous job putting on a first rate event with top rated national speakers, to inspire young women to those who have many years of experience. Something can be learned by all and if you have never attended plan on making reservations for 2013. I already have my calendar marked. " Gail J. Cook |
"I have been involved with W.I.L.D. since the first planning meeting and continue to feel the enthusiasm and passion for this worthwhile group. Whether you are new to the W.I.L.D. or have been attending each event, you will be inspired by motivated women who gather for knowledge, energy and passion. The W.I.L.D. Conference is a fantastic opportunity for women to network, learn and re-energize. Do yourself a favor and mark down the conference date so you will not miss the upcoming conference. GO WILD!!!!!! " Colleen Moore Mezler |
"Every year this conference gets better. I have been very impressed with the balance between networking and the education we get. The emotional bond we create between all these women business leaders is not something you can put a price on. Not to mention the fabulous speakers that inspire us year after year. Way to go Gannon SBDC!! Can’t wait to see what next year will bring to all of us. " Crystal Arlington, CSP, CLP |
"The WILD conference is the fruition of what we are trying to accomplish in Girl Scouting, building women of courage, confidence and character. What a wonderful representation of women! Crystal Arlington succeeding in a male dominated field; Grace Killelea connecting with and overcoming every woman’s insecurities and fears; and the energetic Peggy Klaus teaching women how to achieve their goals; are all examples of women in leadership building up other women. What a wonderful way to celebrate and recognize the 100th year of Girl Scouting! " Renee Triana |
"I found the WILD Conference to be a worthwhile experience because it blended networking opportunities with top-notch motivational speakers who focus on relevant issues women deal with in the workplace. I enjoyed the unique topics covered in mini-breakout sessions and the variety of vendors in the expo as well. Overall, I give the WILD conference high marks for delivering on a value-added experience for women! " JoAnn DeSantis-Barnes, SPHR |
"As an attendee of the 5th Annual W.I.L.D. Conference, I was amazed at the number of professional women in attendance. The speakers were very high-energy and the exhibitors at the event represented a great mix of retail, wellness and professional services. One of the best parts of the event was the networking - I will definitely be back! " Kelly Cofrancisco |
"Attending a Gannon University SBDC W.I.L.D. Conference and being involved in the planning process has offered me many opportunities. The W.I.L.D. has allowed me to network with some of the most amazing and talented women from our area. The speakers have coached me to grow personally and professionally. The general camaraderie at the conference continues to inspire the next generation of women in leadership roles! " Beth Whitford |
"If it weren't for the W.I.L.D. our start-up business wouldn't have gotten off the ground in 2011. Our first clients were the result of being vendors at the March 2011 Conference. In addition, the planning luncheons before and afterwards have given us some of the best networking opportunities we have found in the Erie area. " Maryanne Thornton |
"I honestly look forward to the W.I.L.D. conference each year because the event has such a wide range of appeal. The speaker’s are dynamic and interesting and the day is just a fun time! But, more importantly, this is a fantastic opportunity to network, connect and talk with so many women leaders in the Erie community. It’s an awesome feeling to be a part of such a strong group of women! " Cyndy Patton |
"As women, we are so busy seeking balance and harmony in our homes, careers and family lives. The W.I.L.D. Conference is the perfect opportunity to seek refuge from our daily to do list. There is a reason we attend this event year after year... goals are set, action is taken, and dreams are realized. " Leah Humphries |
"As an Advocate for the leadership of women in business and Chair for the ATHENA PowerLink Program I whole heartily support the W.I.L.D. Conference. The W.I.L.D. provides an excellent forum for women to reach out to one another in supporting the growth of women leaders. " Linda Stevenson |
"The WILD conference is an experience like none other. From the moment you walk through the doors you can feel the positive energy. It is truly a powerful learning experience as well as a way to meet business women from all over. This will be my 3rd year attending and I highly recommend it to all women in business. " Marian Taylor |
"The W.I.L.D. is a day for professional and personal renewal. Nationally known speakers give you savvy advice on leadership and business success while you network with women from all over the region who share your drive to be a more accomplished professional. Add the fun shopping and personal services opportunities -- and you feel like a female Ferris Bueller, stealing a day for yourself. " Susan Breon |
"The W.I.L.D. Conference is an exceptional opportunity for women to network in an inspirational setting. The enthusiasm generated by the businesswomen and speakers is unmatched. You will expand your contacts, knowledge base and stimulate your creativity by attending the W.I.L.D. Conference. " Karen Bukowski |
"The WILD Conference is a not-to-be-missed annual event. Speakers are superb and the networking is second to none. After years of attending the event, what an honor it was for me to recognized as one of the 2011 Legacy Award Winners! " Jayne Huston |



